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Mr. Carey stated that the final project does not use the PUD process as a variance tool to build more than what is currently acceptable. He indicated that it is far below the height limit allowed, noting that in March 2015, the Planning Commission approved the project next door at 31 feet, 8 inches and three feet from their property line. He noted that they have larger rear yard setbacks than required; it is less dense than the prior approved surrounding properties with five total units at 225 Angela Street, six units at Kimberly Commons across the street, and eight units for the Peters Street Condo Complex diagonally across from the project site. He further noted that their project is approximately the same -sized lot with four units, has four off - street parking spaces when only two are required for the residences, and has a lower floor area ratio (FAR) than what is allowed on the lot. Mr. Carey stated that they worked to create not only what is in the Guidelines but also significantly under the limits in all aspects. He noted that with respect to the pre- existing commercial site, they felt it had a great look and used it as their inspiration for the residences. He added that they created a mini -plaza that will enhance the building and benefit the Downtown, Downtown residents, and the community as a whole, and make it a destination for people to gather. He indicated that they have worked well with staff and accommodated all their concerns and recommendations, with the exception of their proposed removal of the residential use for the front site. He noted that while it is their preference to use this space as commercial, they do not want to remove the existing allowed use enjoyed by the surrounding parcels. He explained that, depending on the economy, this gives them the flexibility to put a short-term residential tenant there, which they have right now, while they work on the perfect tenant to create vitality. Tony Adams stated that he has been in Downtown Pleasanton for 44 years, has 150 full -time employees, and owns the property east of the proposed project, which he thinks would be an absolutely fantastic project. He indicated that he backs up to the project, and as earlier mentioned by Mr. Carey, they are within 36 inches of the project and within 18 inches of its height. He added that he has no issues whatsoever with the proposed project. Charles Huff stated that he has been viewing this site with an empty lot for many years and wondered many, many times how this could be developed. He noted then that it was going to take somebody with vision in order to incorporate the house on the corner with this empty lot, and there is just no way to develop it due to the current zoning there. He indicated that he thinks the proposed project is a rare opportunity to consider how the developers have looked at this lot and address mixed -use residential and commercial opportunities. He noted that the Spanish Colonial architecture of the front lot actually ties in quite well with the residential use and is seen in many buildings in the Downtown, including the Veterans Hall. Mr. Huff stated that it is a rare opportunity to develop this infill site to address the need for quality residential units while creating a retail plaza that will bring much needed vitality to this part of town. He noted that at nighttime, a retail use at the corner lot of this part of Downtown would not be a place that people would flock to, whether it be a coffee shop or a restaurant; but a public plaza would be a good addition that would encourage people to come and gather. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, November 18, 2015 Page 13 of 34